Committee to investigate Sawang Calero brgy chief

CEBU, Philippines -  The Cebu City Council has created a committee composed of three councilors to investigate the administrative complaint filed against Sawang Calero Barangay Captain Benjamin Zabate for conduct unbecoming of a public officer.

The City Council designated north district Councilors Sisinio Andales, Leah Japson and Alvin Dizon to compose the “Committee of Three” because Zabate is from a south district barangay.

Zabate was accused by May Ann Guillen and Leodelyn Mendez of indirectly harassing their group who were conducting a variety show at Barangay Sawang Calero last August 9, 2012 when the barangay captain allegedly fired a gun after having a drinking session.

The group of Guillen and Mendez called Osmeña Youth Empowered for Service (O’Yes) are supporting the candidacy of Cebu City South District Rep. Tomas R. Osmeña for city mayor for the elections on next year, while Zabate is an ally of re-electionist Mayor Michael Rama.

Guillen and Mendez filed a complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas, but the anti-graft body referred the matter to the City Council for further action.

The City Council, in turn, requested the DILG to look into the complaint against Zabate thinking that barangay officials are under the supervision of the agency.

But DILG city director Patricio Gabuya explained that the DILG has no jurisdiction over disciplinary actions against the elected officials saying that under the law, it is the City Council who has the power to investigate and impose sanctions against erring barangay officials.

Gabuya reminded the city legislators that their decision over the case against barangay officials shall be final and executory.

Guillen and Mendez narrated that while they were conducting a variety show at Block 6 in Barangay Sawang Calero, they saw a group of men drinking at the adjacent basketball court and they were able to recognize Zabate in the group.

In their affidavits, the two said that at one point during the event, the group of men were shouting and insulting them and the candidates they are supporting.

As the program was about to end at 11:45 p.m., both Guillen and Mendez went to their vehicle and while waiting for their companions, they saw  Zabate fire a gun.

The complainants said that being a barangay official, Zabate should serve as an example to his constituents and should refrain from doing acts contrary to law that is why they filed a criminal case for alarm and scandals before the Ombudsman against him. —MIT (FREEMAN)